Occult blood test
The occult blood test, also known as FOBT (Fecal Occult Blood Test), is a test that detects hidden blood in feces that is not visible to the naked eye. It is an important part of the early detection of bowel cancer, one of the most common forms of cancer in Germany.
How is it carried out in Germany?
In Germany, the immunological fecal occult blood test (iFOBT) is mainly used, which reacts specifically to human blood pigment and is not influenced by food. Patients collect a small fecal sample at home using a kit provided and send it to a laboratory. A positive result often requires further investigation such as a colonoscopy to clarify the cause.
Why is it important?
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in women and men in Germany. Early detection by means of the test can significantly improve the chances of recovery, as it can provide information on bowel cancer or precursors such as polyps.
An unexpected development
In addition to the iFOBT, there are new tests such as the ColoAlert, which detects tumor DNA in feces, which offers greater sensitivity in detecting colorectal cancer, but is not always part of standardized screening and can incur additional costs.
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